Washington, DC— In response to Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott signing a new restrictive voting bill, S.B. 1, into law, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“Far-right legislatures across America will stop at nothing to make voting more difficult for everyone, including voters of color, young voters, the elderly and people with disabilities. This new Texas law is calculated and harmful. S.B. 1 puts a bullseye on wage workers, amplifies the intimidation and suppression already baked into the voting process, criminalizes people who merely help others vote by mail, and makes it easier for losing candidates and political parties to undermine elections after they have been decided. Texas now joins Florida and Georgia in passing voter suppression legislation so powerful that they can overturn the 2022 elections if they don’t like the results. We must protect the freedom to vote for all. Upon its return from recess, the Senate must prioritize passing the John Lewis Voting Rights Act and the For the People Act, and eliminate the filibuster as an obstacle. President Biden must support and lead in these efforts using the full powers of his office.”

 About People For the American Way     

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.